Between guidelines and clinical trials: evidence-based advice on the pharmacological management of non-specific chronic low back pain

BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2023 May 30;24(1):432. doi: 10.1186/s12891-023-06537-0.

Abstract

The pharmacological management of nonspecific chronic low back pain (NCLBP) aims to restore patients' daily activities and improve their quality of life. The management of NCLBP is not well codified and extremely heterogeneous, and residual symptoms are common. Pharmacological management should be considered as co-adjuvant to non-pharmacological therapy, and should be guided by the symptoms reported by the patients. Depending on the individual severity of NCLPB, pharmacological management may range from nonopioid to opioid analgesics. It is important to identify patients with generalized sensory hypersensitivity, who may benefit from dedicated therapy. This article provides an evidence-based overview of the principles of pharmacological management of NCLPB.

Keywords: Chronic; Low back pain; Pharmacological therapy; Spine.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Analgesics, Opioid / therapeutic use
  • Chronic Pain* / diagnosis
  • Chronic Pain* / drug therapy
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Humans
  • Low Back Pain* / diagnosis
  • Low Back Pain* / drug therapy
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Quality of Life

Substances

  • Analgesics, Opioid